Guide Note:

A Doghouse is a designated rest area for a Dog that provides a small covering or shade from the elements when the dog is outdoors.

Fast Facts

1. Common Uses: Shelter for a pet
2. Made from: Wood, Plastic, Metal
3. Price Range: $40.00 to $200.00

When purchasing a doghouse for a pet it's important to consider the demands that will be placed on the house. If the doghouse is going to be the pet's primary piece of shelter from the elements, it's important to choose a house made of a durable material. The doghouse should be able to withstand rain, provide protection from the cold, while providing enough ventilation to shield the pet from the heat. Choosing the correct size for a doghouse is very important. The house should not be too confining, yet should also be small enough to retain heat in the event of rain or cold temperatures. In general a Dog should be able to stand up in it's house, lay out full body, and turn itself around within the house. The house however, should not be too big, dogs are nesting animals and enjoy to be enclosed and prefer tight spaces to feel secure.

There are three general types of Dog Houses. Metal houses are the most durable, but also do not retain heat effectively. Plastic houses are traditionally the least expensive, lighter, and require less maintenance. The traditional wood house is the standard for it's ability to retain heat, and effectively protect the inhabitant from the elements. But they are traditionally the most expensive, and require the most maintenance. Wood houses tend to be the most aesthetically pleasing to owners, and frequently are used as a decorative design in a fashionable household backyard.